Thinking about a Conservatory?

Westbury Garden Rooms design and manufacture bespoke timber garden rooms, orangeries, conservatories and pool rooms from their factory in South Woodham Ferrers. They offer a complete service and so are involved in all stages of the project – right from its initial outset to laying the final roof tile.

Managing Director Jonathan Hey has some advice for anyone looking for a conservatory;

“A badly built uPVC conservatory could contribute to bringing down a property’s value – but a well-built conservatory can add real financial value and help with the sale of a house.

“Timber frames provide a far greater depth and proportion over their uPVC counterparts. With its natural density and weight timber creates a look of strength. Add precision cuts with crisp edges, and a timber conservatory will give a nicer look, with cleaner lines and deeper shadows. By investing wisely a property instantly becomes more attractive and therefore more saleable in the future.”

Designing a glazed extension; tips to consider

“Due to the high density of glass, conservatories can reach temperatures of 40 degrees during the summer. It’s worth considering alternative types of glazed extensions such as garden rooms with a tiled roof or an orangery with a smaller glazed roof lantern to minimise sun exposure, and to help retain heat in winter, too.”

When you’re still at the design stage, you need to think about:

● What you want to use the extension for, and when you’ll be using it.

● Who will it be designed for? Young children, adults, pets?

● Where you’ll build it – this can dramatically impact on the temperature in the room. If you have a choice, it’s best to construct it on a south facing outer wall to attract more sunshine.

● In a south-facing extension, shade is crucial to regulate temperatures. If there isn’t any natural shade, think about using a high quality film to reflect heat ultraviolet rays – these can cause carpets and furniture to fade.

● Ventilation is another crucial consideration – air must be able to flow through the building and draw colder air in. Think about roof vents, extractor fans, ceiling fans or air conditioning.